What should you do if rats appear on the property? - briefly
Immediately secure the premises, eliminate food sources, and set traps or contact pest‑control professionals for eradication. Ensure regular inspections to prevent re‑infestation.
What should you do if rats appear on the property? - in detail
Rats on a property signal sanitation failures and potential health hazards. Immediate assessment should identify activity signs such as droppings, gnaw marks, and nesting material. All food sources must be secured in sealed containers, waste removed promptly, and surfaces cleaned with disinfectant.
Next, eliminate entry routes. Inspect the building envelope for gaps around pipes, vents, doors, and foundations. Seal openings with steel wool, metal flashing, or concrete mortar, as rodents can enlarge openings as small as a quarter‑inch.
Control measures include placement of snap traps or electronic devices along established runways, preferably near walls and concealed areas. Bait should consist of high‑protein food, positioned behind protective covers to prevent accidental exposure. Traps must be checked daily, and captured rodents disposed of according to local regulations.
If infestation persists beyond initial attempts, engage a licensed pest‑management professional. Experts can apply rodenticides, bait stations, or integrated pest‑management programs while ensuring compliance with safety standards. Documentation of all actions aids in legal and insurance matters.
Long‑term monitoring requires periodic inspection of traps, continued exclusion maintenance, and regular sanitation audits. Recording rodent activity trends assists in early detection and prevents re‑infestation. «Rats can cause structural damage and transmit disease», thus sustained vigilance protects both property integrity and occupant health.